Thousands of farmers across Wales have expressed ‘concern and worry’ over the Welsh government's Sustainable Farming Scheme (SFS) proposals.

The Labour-led government is under pressure to carry out a major overhaul of the post-Brexit support system following multiple roadshow events organised by NFU Cymru, with over 2,000 farmers participating.

At these events, NFU Cymru highlighted the concerns raised by farmers regarding the SFS proposals, which are set to replace direct farm payments next year.

Union president Aled Jones, emphasised the magnitude of the situation, stating: “Almost all of the comments fed back to us during these events gave a truly worrying picture of what farmers see the future of their farms looking like.”

NFU Cymru and other industry groups are advocating for a long-term stability payment within the SFS, which would provide a fair reward for farmers undertaking environmental work.

Additionally, they emphasise the need for universal actions that cater to all farm sectors, types, and regions of Wales.

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Welsh farmers are being urged to participate in the Welsh government's consultation on the SFS, with NFU Cymru stressing the importance of having their voices heard.

This call to action follows a protest at Carmarthen market, where over 3,000 farmers gathered to voice their concerns about proposed funding changes.

International referee Nigel Owens, speaking at the protest, disapproved of the current Welsh government policies: “The current Welsh government policies are not fair nor workable, along with their policy on TB eradication which really is not working.”

The issue has prompted the Countryside Alliance to caution the two candidates, Jeremy Miles and Vaughan Gething, standing for the leadership of Welsh Labour about the "growing disconnect" between the government and rural areas.